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the lyrics of this popular hit from the 1970s aptly describe, most
released ex-offenders encounter two prisons. Even though they may
have been released from their physical prison cells, many enter into
the psychological and social imprisonment caused by family members,
friends, employers and the community at large. For these ex-offenders,
it is through experiencing acceptance and forgiveness from their loved
ones and the community that can truly set them “free”.
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This was what the Community Action for the Rehabilitation of Ex-Offenders
Network sought to do by organising the inaugural Yellow Ribbon Project
(YRP) in October 2004. With the key purpose of unlocking this second
prison, YRP aims to achieve the following 3 ‘A’s:
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To create Awareness of giving
second chances to ex-offenders. |
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To generate Acceptance of ex-offenders
and their families into the community. |
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To inspire Community Action
to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex- offenders. |
Since the launch of YRP, MCYS has been fully supporting the efforts
of YRP. Being the key player behind various initiatives aimed at rehabilitating
and reintegrating young offenders, MCYS is committed towards the same
aims of YRP.
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| Saying a big ‘thank you’ to employers
who offer a second chance |
Many MCYS staff would have remembered purchasing yellow ribbons in
October last year, to show their support and spread the message of
the importance of accepting and supporting ex-offenders. During the
weeklong “Wear-A-Yellow-Ribbon” activity, MCYS staff joined
various other community partners such as the Home Team, aftercare
agencies, voluntary welfare organisations, employers as well as the
general public to show their support.
Probationers under MCYS, were also roped in to lend their time, effort
and talents to the YRP cause. 20 probationers volunteered in selling
yellow ribbons through street sales. On top of that, two talented
probationers showcased their vocal assets by performing at the charity
concert on 2 October 2004 alongside various other local artistes.
They also performed at the movie premiere of “Coming Home”,
a local production depicting the stories of three people who experience
difficulties even after being released from prison. Both probationers
were proud to have one of their songs – Changes in Me
– featured in the Yellow Ribbon Project commemorative album.
The Rehabilitation and Protection Division of MCYS also organizes
the MCYS Employers Network Appreciation Function annually. This function
plays tribute to the 70 employers to date, who have shown their support
to ex-offenders. The spirit of the Yellow Ribbon is alive in the very
testimonies of the employers who provide open doors and opportunities.
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| One of the many inspiring messages from an employer
who supports ex-offenders |
| Upcoming events
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MCYS has pledged its support once
again for this year’s Yellow Ribbon initiative, with staff, volunteers
and clients getting involved in the various initiatives. For example,
in June 2005, our probationers participated in the Yellow Ribbon Flag
Day to raise funds in aid of rehabilitative and family support programmes
for ex-offenders and their families. Probationers shared that although
the selling of flags was tiring, it was meaningful. As youth offenders
themselves, they could identify with the beneficiaries of the Project
and understand the importance of acceptance from the public towards
ex-offenders. One of the probationers, aged 16, shared that, “through
selling flags to the public, I learnt how to face some of the rejections
from people positively”.
Upcoming events in which MCYS will be participating include the Yellow
Ribbon Walk and an inaugural conference in September where Dr Vivian
Balakrishnan will be delivering the opening address.
So do look out for the many opportunities to contribute and give your
support to the Yellow Ribbon Project today!
For more information on the Yellow Ribbon Project, and its upcoming
activities, please visit www.yellowribbon.org.sg
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